RADIATION THERAPY

Radiations can eventually kill cancer cells to a great extent. This method is one of the most common treatment methods used in all over the world. Cancer found in early stages can be completely cured using this therapy. X-ray and gamma radiations are generally used in this therapy. The radiation being used can be made localized and confined precisely to the affected region. The main aim of radiation therapy is to kill as many cancer cells as possible. In this case normal cells are also affected, but it can be recovered soon. This method is applicable only to solid tumors. Cancers in brain, stomach, kidney and lungs, can be well diagnosed in this radiation therapy. Radio-sensitivity is one of the key factors in radiation therapy. Each type of cancer cells has a characteristic radio-sensitivity. Depending on the nature of the cells and its radio-sensitivity, radiation doses are given to affected site. Nowadays radiation therapy is also used to treat leukemia. Like every therapy, radiation therapy has its own side effects.